Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a vibrant city located in the eastern part of India. It serves as the capital of the state of West Bengal and stands as one of the country's most significant hubs. Its history goes back to the British colonial era, and its architecture bears testimony to this period. Kolkata is dotted with colonial buildings, including the iconic Victoria Memorial, an exquisite white marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria. It is famous for its literary heritage and has been home to renowned writers and poets like Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray. The city celebrates numerous festivals with enthusiasm, including Durga Puja, a grand Hindu festival which showcases elaborate pandals and artistic idols of the goddess Durga.
Food is a crucial aspect of Kolkata's identity. Bengali cuisine offers a delightful array of dishes, from seafood specialities like fish curry and prawns to sweets like rasgulla and sandesh. The street food scene includes mouthwatering delights like puchkas (pani puri), kathi rolls, and jhalmuri. New Market, College Street, and Gariahat are popular destinations for shopaholics and those seeking unique souvenirs.
Kolkata's love for art is showcased through its art galleries and theatres. The Academy of Fine Arts, Nandan, and Rabindra Sadan are prominent art exhibitions and performance venues. The Howrah Bridge, one of Kolkata's most iconic landmarks, connects the city to its twin city, Howrah. Kolkata's charm lies in its warm and hospitable people, who exude a sense of community and belonging.
Places to visit in Kolkata
Kolkata encapsulates a symphony of history, spirituality, art, and science. Let's delve into the top ten must-visit places in Kolkata:
- Eden Gardens: Eden Gardens is a historic cricket stadium located in Kolkata. It is one of the world's oldest and most iconic cricket grounds. With a seating capacity of over 60,000, it has witnessed numerous memorable cricket matches, both domestic and international. India’s love for cricket is evident in this stadium during leagues like IPL. It was established in 1864 and has hosted several cricket matches, including World Cup matches and high-profile Test matches. The stadium is known for its electric atmosphere during games, with passionate fans filling the stands to support their favourite teams.
- Birla Planetarium: The Birla Planetarium is renowned for its state-of-the-art technology and engaging programs that bring the mysteries of space closer to Earth. It allows visitors to explore the cosmos through captivating audio-visual presentations. Gazing at the night sky in the circular sky theatre, one can embark on a celestial journey, unravelling the mysteries of our universe. Inside the dome-shaped theatre, the night sky comes alive with breathtaking displays, taking you on a celestial voyage with galaxies, constellations, and cosmic events.
- South Park Street Cemetery: A stroll through the South Park Street Cemetery unveils the stories of Kolkata's colonial past. Ornate tombs and serene pathways create an eerie yet captivating atmosphere, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts. It is one of the earliest non-church cemeteries in the world. Established in 1767, during the British East India Company's rule, the cemetery was the final resting place for many prominent individuals of the colonial era. The cemetery is a remarkable example of colonial architecture and reflects the cultural and historical amalgamation of the time.
- Victoria Memorial: The Victoria Memorial is a majestic tribute to the British Queen Victoria and a marvel of elegance. It was built between 1906 and 1921 and dedicated to the memory of Victoria, Empress of India, from 1876 to 1901. This opulent marble edifice is nestled amidst lush gardens, reflecting the grandeur of the colonial era. Its museum houses a treasure trove of paintings, sculptures, and historical artefacts that glimpse Kolkata's history.
- Howrah Bridge: Howrah Bridge is an iconic link of connectivity. It spans the Hooghly River and is a colossal structure devoid of nuts and bolts. It was designed by the British engineering firm Rendel, Palmer & Tritton. Completed in 1943, the bridge was originally named the New Howrah Bridge but was later renamed Rabindra Setu in honour of the renowned Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore. Its colloquial name, Howrah Bridge, however, has persisted.
- Science City: Infotainment Galore Science City, an edutainment hub, brings science to life through interactive exhibits and immersive displays. Catering to all ages, it ignites curiosity and offers insights into the universe's wonders, making learning an enjoyable experience. One of the highlights of Science City is its Earth Exploration Hall, where you can learn about the planet's geology, natural disasters, and environmental conservation. The Evolution Park explains the history of life on Earth through lifelike sculptures and exhibits.
Kolkata Airport (CCU)
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), known as Kolkata Airport, welcomes several flights to Kolkata worldwide. It is located 16 km from Kolkata's centre. The airport has three terminals that work seamlessly to serve passengers. Terminal 1 is responsible for domestic flights, and Terminal 3 caters to low-cost airlines. Terminal 2 handles international flights. The airport offers ATMs, currency exchange kiosks, lounges, duty-free shops, and secure luggage storage lockers to ensure a comfortable journey.
The airport offers multiple transportation options to the city centre, including trains, the metro, taxis, and buses, providing flexibility for travellers. Beyond its functional aspects, the airport's aesthetic charm embodies Kolkata's essence.
